Bamlanivimab Granted Emergency Use Authorization For Early COVID-19 Treatment

A new therapeutic treatment has received FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) for mild-to-moderate COVID-19 infections. Bamlanivimab is an investigational monoclonal antibody that has shown promise in recent clinical trials in reducing the risk of COVID-19 illness escalation resulting in emergency room visits or hospitalizations.

The EUA permits use of bamlanivimab for patients age 12 and older who are at high-risk of disease progression, which includes those over 65 years old, with an existing condition of respiratory or immune compromise, or certain other chronic conditions.

However, the EUA is not permitted for those already hospitalized with COVID-19 or those requiring oxygen therapy, as the clinical trials showed no benefit at later stages of illness. In fact, the FDA noted that using the drug at later stages could be associated with negative outcomes.

Bamlanivimab works by binding to a spike protein on COVID-19 viruses and prevents it from invading human cells. The EUA issuance means that healthcare providers can administer the treatment as a single, intravenous dose.

For the workers' compensation and auto casualty industries, this EUA could have profound effects on those who contract the disease and are at risk of illness progression, thus lowering the potential for more severe claims. Mitchell Pharmacy Solutions will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates where relevant.

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